What is the effect of too much rudder input during a turn?

Study for the Flight Engineer Written FEX Exam. Prepare with multiple choice questions and detailed explanations. Get ready for certification!

Excessive rudder input during a turn can lead to an aerodynamic condition known as a skid. A skid occurs when the aircraft moves sideways relative to its flight path because the turn is not balanced with the appropriate amount of bank and coordinated aileron input. When too much rudder is applied, it can create too much yaw in the direction of the turn, resulting in a loss of coordinated flight. This imbalance causes the aircraft to slide outward from the turn, which is characteristic of a skid. This is particularly evident in a steep turn where the increased load factor can further exacerbate the issue.

In contrast, a stall typically results from excessive angle of attack and inadequate airflow over the wings, which is not directly related to rudder input alone. While too much rudder could enhance the turn radius under certain conditions, the primary and most significant concern is the loss of coordination leading to a skid. The idea that too much rudder would stabilize the flight path is contrary to the principles of aerodynamics because improper rudder use can lead to instability instead.

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